Can you apply polymeric sand twice?

First, you run the danger of disturbing your base/shifting your pavers. Secondly, you will have to wait a day while the surface dries before you can reapply your new sand. Remember polymeric sand and moisture don't mix until after it's in the joints!

Can I add a second layer of polymeric sand?

It is not ideal to add a thin layer of polymeric sand on top of what's already there for many reasons: the original sand can be old, of unknown condition, and/or dirty. The best approach would be to remove at least 1" of the jointing material and follow the steps for a new polymeric sand installation.

Can you reapply polymeric sand?

If you are installing polymeric sand in an existing job, it's important to uniformly remove at least an inch of the joint depth before reinstalling polymeric sand.

How do you touch up polymeric sand?

Adding the new sand to the pavers does take some attention to detail. Pour a generous amount of sand onto the pavers and sweep it into each one of the joints. Use a blunt object like the broom handle to tap the sand into place between the pavers. Sweep more sand over the pavers until it's about 1/8 inch from the top.

Do I need to remove old polymeric sand?

But unlike normal sand, the compound hardens very quickly when you expose it to moisture or water. Thus, you must remove polymeric sand from pavers' surface before you finish your project. Still, the polymeric sand usage in paving projects is probably one of the best choices when it comes to sand types for joints.

How To Use Polymeric Sand for Pavers

How often should you apply polymeric sand to pavers?

If you chose polymeric sand, even if exposed to the same circumstances as regular sand, it may last up to ten years (or more). Note that to increase durability, you can apply a sealer over pavers in both cases (polymeric and regular sand).

Can I add more polymeric sand later?

First, you run the danger of disturbing your base/shifting your pavers. Secondly, you will have to wait a day while the surface dries before you can reapply your new sand. Remember polymeric sand and moisture don't mix until after it's in the joints!

How do you remove hardened polymeric sand?

Removing polymeric sand from pavers is not a fun process. You can try to use a hot pressure washer to remove the sand, but you may be left with some sand remaining in the joint. Regardless, you are going to have to scrape out the sand of the joints and use a shop vac or blower to remove this scraped out sand.

Why does polymeric sand fail?

Polymeric sand cures by drying. And in order to fully set, it needs to dry out completely. If your polymeric sand didn't harden up, it's pretty much guaranteed there's a moisture issue. If the joints remain wet after the installation, they will remain soft until they dry.

How big a gap can polymeric sand fill?

How Big a Gap Can Polymeric Sand Fill? Polymeric sand works best to fill gaps between 1/4 inch and 1.5 inches wide. Wider joints will require more time to harden.

Can you put too much sand under pavers?

The amount of sand you use can make or break your paver installation, so it's best that you use no more than the recommended 1 inch. Here's why: A sand layer that is too thick can create waves in your patio during the installation. Pressing pavers into a thick sand bed may result in misalignment and a messy look.

How do you get rid of polymeric sand haze?

If poly sand haze has transpired on the surface, it must be cleaned with an acid-based cleaner. Sometimes vinegar can be used unless the poly sand haze is severe. Many times, homeowners and even contractors are unaware of poly sand haze.

How long does polymeric sand last?

Polymeric sand can last up to 10 years before replacement is necessary. However, certain manufacturers claim some products can last up to 15 years.

Can you pressure wash polymeric sand?

You can't pressure wash and apply polymeric sand on the same day. I should warn you that getting the stain off is a huge problem so it's best to take the time to avoid it in the first place.

How do you refresh paver sand?

To replace sand that has been washed out, simply pour joint sand over the pavers. Next, sweep it into and across the joints using a stiff push broom. Keep the depth of the sand at ¼ inch from the surface of the paver. Afterwards, you can sweep the excess joint sand between pavers and store it again for future use.

How long does it take for polymeric sand to harden?

A minimum of 24 hours drying time is required prior to allowing significant foot traffic and 48 hours for vehicular traffic on the paver surface. Polymeric sands are designed to soften and re-heal.

Can you over water polymeric sand?

When watering in the Poly Sand, remember Goldilocks - "This is just right." Don't use too much or too little water. The amount of water you use is a critical element to an installation. Using too much water can cause the joint to over-saturate and result in polymer washout, mushy sand, and a weak bond.

How often do you apply polymeric sand?

With regular sand, you should re-sand your pavers at least once in two years. Polymeric sand is usually good for about ten years, so re-sanding costs are saved when using this type of sand. However, this is a very basic estimate, and it actually depends on the conditions faced by your paver, such as weather.

When should you not use polymeric sand?

#6 - Too Narrow or Too Wide Joints

The sand is simply pushed out of the joints. This is why we don't recommend using polymeric sand on extremely narrow joints. Similarly, too-wide joints can lead to washout, because they allow too much water flow during the activation process.

Should I tamp sand before laying pavers?

Before you begin laying pavers, prepare the ground. Ensure you have a root and rubble free compatible sand sub-base of at least 50mm thick. The sub-base should be roughly levelled and damped down before tamping down firmly with a hand or mechanical compactor.